by Julie Noyas | Jun 13, 2018 | Covered Containers
Item Number: CC-02
Height: 6”
Production Dates: 1915-1925 (Pickle) and 1934-1943 (Jam)
There are certain items in the Fostoria American line that were produced for a few years and then discontinued – only to resurface years later under a different name. As our eating and dining habits changed throughout the years, reintroduction of previously produced items seemed quite practical. The Pickle Jar is one such item, for it was later called the Jam Jar.
When the Pickle Jar was first introduced, it was in the debut of the American pattern. The year was 1915, and it stayed in production through 1925. It would resurface in the mid-1930’s under a new name, the Jam Jar. The Jam Jar was produced through 1943, and then dropped from the 2056 line.
Of all the covered pieces in the American line, the Pickle Jar Cover is one of the most unique. While the cover is easy enough to remove from the jar portion, one should do so with care. Unlike most other covers, this one does not have an official knob or handle for retrieval. In contrast, this particular piece has a slightly elevated point resting on top of its lid.
It is quite common to find Pickle Jars without Covers, as many bottom pieces were sold to other companies that specialized in making metal filigree frames, holders, and casters. These were very decorative pieces, and special covers were made for such items. There are also Pickle Jar bottoms that were never intended to go into holders; instead, they were adorned with beautiful sterling silver lids. Obviously, the Pickle Jar bottoms were made by Fostoria; however, they did not produce any of the decorative metal lids or holders.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Pickle Jars on eBay.
by Julie Noyas | Feb 6, 2017 | Covered Containers
Item Number: CC-04
Diameter: 5¾″
Production Dates: 1915-1944
The Fostoria Two Handled Preserve and Cover is a beautiful and unique piece, bearing a handle on each side. It is rather unique-looking, and therein lies its charm, as it was designed and first produced over a hundred years ago. The Two Handled Preserve and Cover is one of the pioneering pieces in the American #2056 line, and made its initial debut in the Fostoria American 1915 Catalog Supplement.
While its original purpose was to serve preserves and such, there are many other ways to utilize this dish today. I still use it for its original purpose; however, I have also used it as a candy dish, relish dish, for serving after-dinner mints … and the list goes on and on. If you use your imagination, you will soon find that there are a variety of ways to use this versatile piece.
The Two Handled Preserve and Cover has a diameter of approximately 5½″ – 5¾″ (not counting the handles) and a height between 4″ – 4½″ (including the cover). The bowl portion has a beautiful starburst design in the bottom, and the Cover has smooth edges (not serrated) on the bottom rim. I find the two pieces make a good connection. Without any serrated edges to match up when putting the Cover back on the dish, the chances of damage are usually reduced – especially since both pieces have smooth edges.
The Two Handled Preserve and Covers are not considered rare, nor are they considered a common find. As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Two Handled Preserve and Covers on eBay.
by Julie Noyas | Jan 23, 2017 | Covered Containers
Item Number: CC-01
Height: 5½″
Production Dates: 1937-1943
The Marmalade and Cover was only manufactured for a few years, starting around 1937. Because of its limited life span, this piece is not considered a common item, nor is it extremely rare. What is difficult; however, is finding the original spoon that was sold with it.
The initial production of this item included a Chromium Spoon. Later in production (circa 1942), the Spoon changed to a Silver-Plated version. Some of the published books on Fostoria American have conflicting information on the details and photos of the Spoon. They show the Marmalade and Cover with a glass spoon; however, it appears they are using the Mustard spoon. The Marmalade was never offered with a glass spoon from Fostoria.
If you have lost your original spoon, or simply want to replace it with something different, it is not too difficult to find appropriately sized spoons. You need to take measurements of the size of the hole in the top, as you will need to find a spoon that will fit comfortably in that opening. I did find one that I like very much; it is a wooden spoon. It looks great, is the right height, and fits extremely well (not too tight, not too loose). Since it is wood, I don’t have to worry about any metal hitting the glass. I really like the way it looks, so much so that I actually prefer it to the original spoon.
You can find more information on the wood replacement spoons in the following paid link. Full Disclosure: I am an Amazon Associate; thus, I earn from qualifying purchases. These are the wooden spoons that I use. They are about 5.8 inches long, have a lovely sheen to them, and the small bowl area scoops up any marmalade or jam with great ease. I especially like using these in the fall season when I have the table set with other wood serving pieces and natural elements. The wood, combined with the gleaming glass, is very attractive!
The Fostoria American Marmalade and Cover looks somewhat similar in form to the American Mustard and Cover. Here is a tip on how to tell the difference – look at the bowl’s foot! The Marmalade foot consists of a beautiful starburst or ray design. In contrast, the Mustard has a plain foot. While many people get these two pieces confused, if you remember this distinguishing fact, you will be able to determine its true identity.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Marmalades on eBay.
by Julie Noyas | Jan 12, 2017 | Bowls & Centerpieces, Covered Containers
Item Number: 162
Approximate Size: 6½” D – 8″ H
Production Dates: 1948-1973 (Crystal Version)
The Wedding Bowl and Cover has a top opening of approximately 6″ square. The bigger Square Footed Bowl has a 7″ square opening. The main difference in size between the two bowls primarily deals with their top square opening measurement. The Wedding Bowl is approximately 8″ tall, with the Cover on. Without the Cover, it is about 5¼” tall. The foot of this Wedding Bowl is 4″ square, compared to the 4½” foot on the larger Square Footed Bowl.
It is my belief that these Wedding Bowls are some of the finest, and most beautiful, of all the pieces in the Fostoria American line. The history of wedding bowls goes back many years – over a century ago. They were cherished, and often used on a daily basis. When these items were being produced, they were very popular wedding gifts. Even though times and customs have changed drastically over the years, I can’t imagine any bride-to-be (even in today’s world) not falling in love with one of these exquisite and stunning Wedding Bowls.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Wedding Bowls on eBay. This item was also available in White Milk Glass; see sponsored link for available Milk Glass items on eBay.
by Julie Noyas | Jan 4, 2017 | Covered Containers, Nappies
Item Number: 505
Height: 5”
Production Dates: 1924-1982
The Fostoria Nappy and Cover was a very popular piece in the American line. So popular, in fact, that it has a Look-Alike cousin in the American Whitehall pattern. Many times people confuse the two, and it is not uncommon to see the American Whitehall piece being sold as genuine Fostoria American. The American Whitehall piece is called a “Candy Box/Cover”.
The Nappy and Cover is approximately 5″ in height. The Nappy Cover (or Lid) is approximately 3” high and has an inside retainer ring of clear glass. While Fostoria Glass officially called this piece a “Nappy”, it is also referred by many as a candy dish.
If you find a similar dish in color, then it is probably the Whitehall version. The American Whitehall Candy Box was manufactured in a variety of colors – such as Blue, Ruby, Green, Blue Carnival, and more. It was also produced in clear crystal.
The Nappy and Cover was produced for many years and is still fairly easy to find in the aftermarket. As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Nappy and Covers on eBay.
by Julie Noyas | Dec 14, 2016 | Covered Containers
Item Number: 462
Height: 3½″
Production Dates: 1915-1944; Reinstated 1947-1970
The Fostoria American Lemon and Cover is another pioneering piece in the American pattern. We know that it was introduced in 1915, based on the information in Fostoria’s 1915 Catalog Supplement. It was also originally offered without a cover. The uncovered version was called the Lemon Dish.
The Lemon and Cover has an approximate height of 3½″, with a diameter of 5½″ (this measurement can vary slightly). The Cover does not have a serrated edge; instead, the top edge is smooth – with two indentations – approximately 180 degrees apart from each other. In contrast, the actual Lemon Dish has two notches on the top edge – making for a perfect and precise fit with the Cover.
Whether used for storing lemons or not, it is a versatile and practical serving piece. It can also be used as a confection and/or relish dish.
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Lemon Dishes on eBay.